Earthwood Forest School

Earthwood Forest School offers:

Nature Preschool:

Ages 2.5 (toilet trained or nearly)-5.5 - M/W/F, T-Th, or M-F 8:30-12:30

After school Nature Explorer Club

Ages 5-10 M/W/F, T-Th, or M-F 2:30-5:30

Home school Nature Study Group

Ages 5-10; 1-3 times a week (at times agreeable to parents)

We are an inclusive program, so welcome children of all abilities and backgrounds. (Children must not be prone to running away or harming self or others.)

Our program gives children enriching opportunities to learn in the natural world. We believe a balance of structured and unstructured child-directed play enhances growth and development in all areas, including communication, physical, social, emotional, creative, and intellectual areas. This growth is achieved in a safe, secure, and loving environment with caregivers who are dedicated to enriching the lives of children.

We practice basic principles, such as caring for one another, sharing, and, kindness. Children are encouraged to be good examples for others and good stewards of the earth's resources.

Mission

To provide nature-based creative play and learning experiences for children and youth.

Vision

Generations of healthy people who are lifelong advocates for the natural world.

Purpose

To inspire groups of young people to explore and enjoy nature through creative, self-directed play and learning experiences in the outdoors.

Outdoor Play

Outdoor play is a regular and central part of the curriculum and daily routine. Children should be dressed for active outdoor play every day in any weather. Children will be allowed to get messy and take reasonable risks such as running, climbing, gardening, carpentry, and outdoor cooking (including use of using corresponding tools). Safety is our utmost concern, and children will be taught how to do every activity safely.

Class Composition and Ratios

- The ratio of boys and girls is random. We want inclusion and diversity at Earthwood Forest School and strive to achieve that.
- Class groups consist of 10 children maximum and 2 facilitators. On most days, an additional adult volunteer will be present.
- Preschool groups are made of 10 children ages 3-5
- Summer groups are mixed ages from 3 to 8 (or 10) years old (grouped by age for some activities).
- After school groups may be mixed ages from 3-8, or 3-5 and 6-10 depending on enrollment.

Currently, we have a play-site at 610 Foxcroft Drive at Little Creek Park and Greenway off Jonestown Rd. near Hanes Mall.